On Disability Matters, John Comiskey spoke with Christina Donnelly, National Coordinator at Chronic Pain Ireland, about a condition that affects thousands across the country — yet is still widely misunderstood.
Chronic pain is not simply “a bad back” or “a lingering injury.” It is a complex, life-altering condition that can impact every aspect of a person’s physical, emotional and social wellbeing.
What Is Chronic Pain?
“Pain is your body’s warning system,” Christina explained. “It tells you something needs attention.”
But when pain persists beyond the normal healing period — typically longer than three months — it is classified as chronic pain. At that stage, it no longer serves a protective purpose. Instead, it becomes a condition in its own right.
Chronic pain can be constant or intermittent. It may stem from conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, neuropathy or injury — and in some cases, the cause may never be clearly identified.
“It disrupts sleep, work, relationships and quality of life,” Christina said. “Pain is both physical and emotional.”
She encouraged listeners not to ignore persistent pain and to seek support early.
Preparing to Speak to a Healthcare Professional
For those nervous about speaking to a GP or consultant, Christina offered practical advice:
Keep a simple pain diary.
Note the type of pain — sharp, burning, stabbing, throbbing.
Track when it occurs and what makes it better or worse.
Record medications and supplements.
Use a 1–10 scale to describe intensity.
“These details matter,” she explained. “They help your healthcare professional understand what’s happening.”
Work, Entitlements and Advocacy
Chronic pain can affect a person’s ability to work — temporarily or permanently.
However, entitlement to supports depends on how disabling the condition is and how thoroughly it is documented in medical reports.
Christina stressed the importance of detailed medical assessments and signposted people to Citizens Information and the National Advocacy Service for People with Disabilities for guidance.
She also highlighted the Government’s Work and Access Employment Programme, aimed at helping people remain in or return to employment.
“There is still stigma,” she acknowledged. “Some people are afraid to tell their employer. But schemes are improving — and support is there.”
Treatment Is Not One-Size-Fits-All
There is no universal solution to chronic pain.
While medication and clinical treatments can play an important role, Christina emphasised a combined approach — including physiotherapy, psychological supports, pacing strategies, stress management and lifestyle adjustments.
Chronic Pain Ireland promotes a biopsychosocial model of health — recognising that pain affects:
▪️ The body (symptoms, sleep, fatigue)
▪️ The mind (thoughts, emotions, beliefs)
▪️ The social world (relationships, stigma, work)
“People get ill — not just parts of the body,” Christina said.
Self-management is key. Small, realistic steps. Avoiding burnout. Prioritising sleep. Being kind to yourself.
Pain Clinics and Access to Care
Pain clinics — available in many major hospitals — offer multidisciplinary support including consultants, physiotherapists, psychologists and occupational therapists.
However, access varies across the country, and waiting lists remain a challenge.
Since 2014, chronic pain has been recognised as a medical specialty in Ireland — a milestone achieved after years of campaigning.
“There’s been huge progress,” Christina said. “But there’s still work to do.”
About Chronic Pain Ireland
Founded in 1992, Chronic Pain Ireland has spent over three decades supporting people living with persistent pain.
For €22 per year, members gain access to:
▪️ Monthly workshops
▪️ Structured self-management courses
▪️ Telephone support line
▪️ Guided meditation and mental health supports
▪️ Peer community spaces
▪️ Educational resources and newsletters
“It’s a safe space,” Christina explained. “There’s no judgement. People understand.”
The organisation is largely funded through small grants, donations and membership fees, operating with full transparency.
A Message to Listeners
“If you’ve just been diagnosed, you may feel angry, overwhelmed or scared,” Christina said.
“Give yourself time. Don’t set unrealistic goals. Small steps. Be kind to yourself. And reach out when you’re ready.”
Chronic Pain Ireland’s telephone support line is:
📞 01 804 7567
🌐 https://chronicpain.ie/
📧 info@chronicpain.ie
Because living with chronic pain should not mean living without support.
*This is an archived interview that first aired on October 10th, 2024.
This interview aired on Disability Matters on 92.5 Phoenix FM, a programme produced by Blanchardstown Centre for Independent Living (BCIL).
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